I also thought of that when I read the about the one shoe. I also thought that a man in the mountains would likely have at least a jacket. But the younger generations consider it fashionable to go out in the cold with no coat, shorts (or pajama bottoms) and flip-flops. The young people today give no thought to what happens if things go bad while they are away from home. Going out like that can mean death or easily the loss of body parts to frost bite.
The shoe could have been lost early on when he was running away. If it was he should have surrendered then because it was a death sentence.
I've noticed this too. Something as minor as a flat tire--or running out of gas can turn to a life-threatening crises for the stupid flops/shorts wearing fashionistas.
Didn't anyone spend time in the Boy Scouts, where one is taught to "Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst?"
To me it's irresponsible and effeminate for men especially to be underdressed and unprepared going out in cold weather.